Worth repairing an old boiler?

Zengze · 13 Dec 2014

I've found my boiler (Glow-Worm 30FF) has the same issue the previous owner had 7 years ago: pilot ignites but no full burner. That time it cost £580 to fix (new valve, harness, pilot assembly, 4 hours labour). Now I'm having the same issue and wonder if it's not better to just replace the boiler than potentially have significant repair expenses every year due to the age of the boiler.

What do you think of this boiler model, is it worth keeping repaired or better to just replace it? If anyone can suggest a suitable replacement boiler that would also be appreciated.

footprints · 14 Dec 2014

Boilers are a bit like cars when they start to need expensive repairs then it's time to trade in!
Unless you have a particular problem with siteing a new boiler I would say it's time to get shot of it

DP · 14 Dec 2014

Cannot see how a fault like that would need that many hours and parts to fix

benny200 · 14 Dec 2014

I'd be thinking that it's the pilot burner. Probably a 25 minute job and quite a cheap part - could most likely be cleaned up. Is the boiler still sparking after the pilot is lit?

Zengze · 14 Dec 2014

benny200 said:
I'd be thinking that it's the pilot burner. Probably a 25 minute job and quite a cheap part - could most likely be cleaned up. Is the boiler still sparking after the pilot is lit?

Yes the pilot lights but keeps sparking non stop. The main burner does not light. Fan and pump both seem to be functioning normally.

footprints · 15 Dec 2014

Could be several things if the spark is not inhibiting
Sensible answer is to spend out on an engineer and see what he says

benny200 · 15 Dec 2014

Where are you in London? If it's near my patch I'll pop in and give you the verdict

gas112 · 15 Dec 2014

FFS dont use the guy the previous owner used £580 totally ripped off by someone who clearly didnt have a clue about a really simple fault on a really simple boiler

benny200 · 15 Dec 2014

To be honest if you change the fan and pcb you'll have a brand new boiler! I'd say fix it

Zengze · 15 Dec 2014

benny200 said:
Where are you in London? If it's near my patch I'll pop in and give you the verdict

I'm in SE16 post code - Surrey Quays area. If that's nearby you let me know.

benny200 · 15 Dec 2014

Check your inbox!

Zengze · 15 Dec 2014

Fixed now. Was: APS kinked, blocked pilot, blocked injector, spark electrode corroded (cleaned). No new parts available for this boiler at local stores so he worked to clean up the existing parts, taking him an hour's work, plus time visiting supply stores. Paid £125, seemed reasonable.

Dan Robinson · 15 Dec 2014

That is a bargain.

footprints · 15 Dec 2014

Glad you got it fixed for Christmas

I would still think about changing, sounds like if he had needed a part you would have been in for a long wait if indeed you could get one.

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Worth repairing an old boiler?

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